Latest news with #authenticexperiences
Hospitality Net
21 hours ago
- Business
- Hospitality Net
How Values and Tech are Reshaping Travel in 2025 and Beyond
Gen Z and Millennials spearhead a significant shift in the travel industry. They demonstrate how values and tech are reshaping travel in 2025 and beyond. Understanding the evolving travel trends of Gen Z, which are driving this change, is therefore crucial for the industry. These digital natives seek identity-forming, authentic experiences. Traditional holidays are not enough. Instead, technology, particularly social media, fuels their travel intent. Central to this evolution are Gen Z's unique values. A focus on purpose and spontaneity, for instance, consistently drives their decisions. Their inherent digital fluency, combined with these essential factors, is poised to transform global travel in remarkable ways. This upcoming shift will likely shape 2025 and beyond, setting a new course for the years to come. Takeaways Values First: Gen Z seeks authentic experiences, growth, sustainability, and connection over material travel perks. Tech's Influence: Social media (especially TikTok) inspires Gen Z, while AI personalizes their travel experiences. Key Gen Z Trends: Set jetting, gig tripping, short breaks, food travel, and off-grid exploration are rising. Smart Spending: Gen Z travellers are budget-conscious, prioritizing funds for unique activities over lavish stays. Essential Adaptation: Industry must balance tech with human touch, maintain trust, and embrace responsible practices. The ascent of a new traveller cohort The travel industry is witnessing a seismic shift. Gen Z, those aged between 18 and 27 in 2025, and Millennials, aged 28 to 43, are now the most influential travel demographics globally. Their approach to travel diverges sharply from traditional tourism models. They are not passive tourists. Instead, they are active participants in their journeys. For them, travel is an extension of their identity. Consequently, it is deeply intertwined with self-discovery and global connection. Technology is not just a tool for this cohort; it is an integral part of their travel DNA. Social media, in particular, acts as a primary catalyst, shaping desires and decisions. This dynamic demands a fresh perspective from hospitality providers. Adapting to their unique values and tech-savviness is paramount. Experiences over possessions For Gen Z, the value of travel lies in experiences, not souvenirs. Travel is far more than a mere break from routine. It is an essential component of their personal growth. Furthermore, it helps them connect with the world and understand their place in it. They actively prioritize experiences over material goods. This quest for meaning translates into a desire for travel that is both enriching and transformative. Hotels, therefore, need to focus on curating unique and memorable experiences. These experiences should resonate with Gen Z's search for personal development and social connection. Authenticity and novelty Predictability is the enemy of the Gen Z traveller. They actively seek spontaneity and adventure. This generation yearns for personal growth through their journeys. As a result, they are drawn to unique, authentic, and culturally rich experiences. Lesser-known destinations often hold more appeal than crowded tourist hotspots. Indeed, a significant 68% of Gen Z travellers prioritize destinations where they can 'discover something new.' This preference often leads them to explore 'dupe destinations' or off-beat locations. They are not just visiting; they are exploring and engaging. Thus, hotels and travel companies should highlight the unique cultural fabric of their locations. Purposeful and conscious travel Today's younger travellers are increasingly conscious of their impact. They are evolving from passive consumers into active participants in sustainable tourism. This includes engaging in conservation projects. It might also involve participating in community programs or seeking genuine cultural exchanges. Consequently, the younger population will likely avoid destinations perceived as harmful to the climate. They also shun places lacking a regenerative or responsible tourism component. Travel in 2025 is becoming more deliberate and introspective. It has a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and profound experiences. Therefore, demonstrating a genuine commitment to sustainability is vital for attracting this demographic. Affordability and savvy budgeting strategies Affordability is a key factor for Gen Z travellers, who prioritize exploration despite rising travel costs. They often make sacrifices in other areas to fund their adventures and practice responsible consumption. Many pool resources with friends, utilize group discounts, and choose shared accommodations to stretch their budgets. A significant 72% of Gen Z and Millennial travellers prefer affordable hotels, allowing them to spend more on experiences. Hotels that provide value without sacrificing quality will succeed. The desire for connection and community 'Tribe Travel' Paradoxically, despite being hyper-connected online, Gen Z and Millennials report rising levels of loneliness. This fuels a fundamental human desire for genuine communion and community during their travels. 'Tribe Travel' is a significant motivating factor for 2025. This trend emphasizes forming strong bonds and creating lasting memories. They travel with family and loved ones. Consequently, accommodations and experiences that facilitate group interaction and shared moments will resonate deeply. This could include communal spaces, group-friendly activities, and tailored family packages. The new travel currency: Gen Z and Millennials prioritize creating and sharing memorable experiences, from scenic road trips to unique dining, all fueled by social media. The new search engine and inspiration hub The way Gen Z discovers and plans travel has been revolutionized by social media. Platforms like TikTok are no longer just for entertainment. TikTok's dominance: TikTok has emerged as a primary tool for product discovery and travel inspiration. An estimated 40% of Gen Z consumers prefer TikTok over established search engines, such as Google. They use it for finding hotels, tours, or travel hacks. Astonishingly, 72% of Gen Z consider 'Googling' to be synonymous with searching on TikTok. TikTok has emerged as a primary tool for product discovery and travel inspiration. An estimated 40% of Gen Z consumers prefer TikTok over established search engines, such as Google. They use it for finding hotels, tours, or travel hacks. Astonishingly, 72% of Gen Z consider 'Googling' to be synonymous with searching on TikTok. Authenticity and real-time glimpses: Unlike the often carefully curated feeds on Instagram, TikTok offers unfiltered, real-time glimpses into destinations. This content frequently comes from locals or fellow travellers. This raw authenticity strongly appeals to Gen Z's desire for genuine experiences. Unlike the often carefully curated feeds on Instagram, TikTok offers unfiltered, real-time glimpses into destinations. This content frequently comes from locals or fellow travellers. This raw authenticity strongly appeals to Gen Z's desire for genuine experiences. Influencer marketing and social shopping: Social media platforms are now integral to travel inspiration. About 17% of travellers cite TikTok as their primary source of inspiration. Instagram influences 27% of people when choosing destinations. Furthermore, half of all consumers have felt compelled to book a trip they saw on social media. Travel brands are adapting rapidly. For example, Expedia's 'Travel Shops' allow direct booking of creator-curated trips. Social media platforms are now integral to travel inspiration. About 17% of travellers cite TikTok as their primary source of inspiration. Instagram influences 27% of people when choosing destinations. Furthermore, half of all consumers have felt compelled to book a trip they saw on social media. Travel brands are adapting rapidly. For example, Expedia's 'Travel Shops' allow direct booking of creator-curated trips. Content creation and engagement: Social media platforms shape the culture and preferences of this generation. Brands are increasingly collaborating with micro and nano creators. These creators share authentic, on-the-ground content on platforms like TikTok. This inspires the 'I want to go there' travel intent. Gen Z uses social media significantly more for product research (+22 percentage points compared to the overall average). AI, the planning and experience enhancer Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming the travel landscape. It impacts how travellers plan, book, and experience their journeys. Transforming operations and customer experience: AI is set to reshape business operations within the travel industry. It promises to significantly improve the customer experience. Moreover, it can drive sustainable growth. AI is set to reshape business operations within the travel industry. It promises to significantly improve the customer experience. Moreover, it can drive sustainable growth. Personalization and efficiency: AI-powered assistants and personalized itineraries will mark a significant leap into a high-tech travel future in 2025. Leading companies like Marriott Bonvoy and Alaska Airlines are already using AI for sophisticated trip planners. AI voice assistants are also expected to become a core part of travel and dining booking processes. This level of personalization directly appeals to Gen Z's desire for tailored experiences. AI-powered assistants and personalized itineraries will mark a significant leap into a high-tech travel future in 2025. Leading companies like Marriott Bonvoy and Alaska Airlines are already using AI for sophisticated trip planners. AI voice assistants are also expected to become a core part of travel and dining booking processes. This level of personalization directly appeals to Gen Z's desire for tailored experiences. Operational streamlining: Businesses are leveraging AI to dramatically slash product development times. They are also using it to streamline production capabilities and cut operational costs. However, this rapid market entry facilitated by AI also comes with increased business risks that need careful management. Businesses are leveraging AI to dramatically slash product development times. They are also using it to streamline production capabilities and cut operational costs. However, this rapid market entry facilitated by AI also comes with increased business risks that need careful management. Future adaptability: It is crucial for travel companies to ensure they are well-positioned. They must adapt to increasingly smart personal assistant technology. This technology will likely become central to how Gen Z manages their travel. Bridging the digital divide thoughtfully While Gen Z and Millennials are deeply immersed in the digital world, a digital divide still exists. There is a significant opportunity for travel companies to tailor experiences. They can close this gap for older generations. Simultaneously, they can super-serve the younger, tech-savvy early adopters. This means offering intuitive digital tools for Gen Z. It also means providing alternative, more traditional service options for those less comfortable with technology. Maintaining trust in a digital age of scrutiny Online trust is increasingly under scrutiny. This directly affects consumer behaviour towards businesses, including travel providers. Brands must proactively address data privacy concerns. This is especially critical with the increased adoption of AI and personalized services. Transparency in data usage and robust security measures are essential for building and maintaining Gen Z's trust. Adapting continuously to evolving demands and expectations The preferences of Gen Z and Millennials are not static. They demand active, spontaneous, and transformative travel experiences. Therefore, the travel industry must commit to continuous innovation and adaptation. This means staying agile, embracing new technologies thoughtfully, and constantly seeking feedback from these younger cohorts to refine offerings. The dawn of a new travel era Gen Z and Millennials are transforming the travel industry with their demand for authentic and purposeful experiences, driven by technology. To succeed, the travel sector must focus on intentional, responsible, and sustainable travel while leveraging smart, human-centric technology. Understanding Gen Z travel trends is essential for adapting to this dynamic landscape and ensuring long-term growth. About Shiji Group Shiji is a global technology company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for the hospitality industry, ensuring seamless operations for hoteliers day and night. Built on the Shiji Platform—the only truly global hotel technology platform—Shiji's cloud-based solutions include property management system, point-of-sale, guest engagement, distribution, payments, and data intelligence for over 91,000 hotels worldwide, including the largest hotel chains. With more than 5,000 employees across the world, Shiji is a trusted partner for the world's leading hoteliers, delivering technology that works as continuously as the industry itself. That's why the best hotels run on Shiji—day and night. While its primary focus is on hospitality, Shiji also serves select customers in food service, retail, and entertainment in certain regions. For more information, visit View source
Associated Press
3 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Morocco Tours Agency Captures Surge in American Visitors with Immersive 2025 Travel Experiences
Morocco Tours Agency, a boutique travel provider, reports a major increase in American travelers booking cultural and desert tours across Morocco in 2025, fueled by growing interest in authentic, locally guided experiences. Merzouga, Morocco, June 10, 2025 -- American travelers are once again turning their attention to one of North Africa's most enchanting destinations: Morocco. After years of postponed plans and shifting travel priorities, 2025 is shaping up to be a defining year for international tourism, and Morocco is leading the charge, with a dramatic surge in visitor numbers and a renewed focus on authentic, culturally rich adventures. Riding this wave of momentum is Morocco Tours Agency, a boutique travel provider based in Merzouga that's quietly built a reputation as one of the most trusted and top-rated tour operators in the region. With more than 840 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, Morocco Tours Agency is helping a new generation of U.S. travelers discover the heart of the country — from the winding alleys of Fes to the soaring dunes of the Sahara. 'Travel is personal again. Americans are looking for experiences that go deeper — that show them a country through the eyes of its people,' says Saïd Sahlaoui, the agency's founder. 'We design every itinerary with that goal in mind. Morocco isn't just a destination — it's a journey into culture, tradition, and raw natural beauty.' Morocco's Tourism Boom: More Than Just a Trend Morocco is one of the fastest-growing destinations for American tourists in 2025. In 2024, the country welcomed 17.4 million visitors, a 20% increase from the previous year. That momentum has only grown in 2025, fueled by improved flight access from U.S. cities, increased media spotlight (including Morocco's upcoming role as a host country for the 2030 FIFA World Cup), and a growing desire among travelers to step outside the usual European circuit. Airlines like Delta, United, and Royal Air Maroc have expanded direct service from New York, Boston, and Washington D.C., making Morocco more accessible than ever. For travelers weary of over-touristed spots in Europe, Morocco offers an exotic, yet welcoming alternative — with the added appeal of affordability, safety, and English-speaking guides. A Local Agency Making Global Impact While large international companies often dominate the tourism space, Morocco Tours Agency offers something different: deep local knowledge, handcrafted tours, and real cultural immersion. Operating since 2018, the company offers everything from short 3-day adventures to luxury private circuits, all with local guides, comfortable accommodations, and door-to-door service from cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca. Their goal? To make Morocco feel accessible and personal, no matter your travel style. Their packages are particularly popular with American families, couples, solo travelers, and student groups, especially those looking for: 'We've hosted travelers from all over the U.S. — New York to Texas to California,' says Sahlaoui. 'Many of them say the same thing: they came for the landscapes, but fell in love with the people and the culture.' Three Signature Experiences Americans Love Sahara Desert Adventure ( 3 Days – Marrakech to Merzouga ) This itinerary leads guests from the vibrant souks of Marrakech through the Atlas Mountains and into the heart of the Sahara. Highlights include camel treks at sunset, stargazing from traditional Berber desert camps, and visits to cinematic kasbahs like Ait Ben Haddou. Cultural Circuit ( 3 Days – Fes to Marrakech ) Connecting two of Morocco's most iconic cities, this route showcases lush valleys, cedar forests, and desert landscapes. Along the way, travelers enjoy immersive stops in small villages, scenic gorges, and the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Southern Morocco Experience ( 4 Days – Round Trip from Marrakech ) For travelers with extra time, this circular route explores southern Morocco's diverse terrain. From historic kasbahs to vast sandscapes, the tour offers a deeper look into Amazigh culture and Morocco's layered history. These itineraries are ideal for travelers looking to maximize their time while still experiencing the full spectrum of Morocco's rich geography and heritage — from palm-filled valleys and dramatic gorges to kasbahs, souks, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Why Morocco, Why Now? With most of the world reopened, American travelers are prioritizing destinations that offer cultural connection, natural wonder, and safety — without sacrificing comfort. Morocco fits that profile, offering: As Morocco invests in infrastructure and sustainable tourism ahead of the 2030 World Cup, the country is not only a hotspot for this year but a strategic travel choice for the coming decade. 5-Star Reputation and Real Reviews Unlike many generic tour operators, Morocco Tours Agency has earned a sterling reputation by focusing on real relationships and memorable moments. The company currently boasts: 'We love seeing families come back for a second tour or send their friends our way,' adds Sahlaoui. 'That trust — that's everything to us.' Building Trust, One Tour at a Time Morocco Tours Agency credits its growing international following to its emphasis on personalized service, local insight, and guest satisfaction. With licensed, multilingual guides, modern vehicles, and flexible itineraries, the company makes exploring Morocco both seamless and memorable. Whether planning a romantic escape, family vacation, or student expedition, Morocco Tours Agency offers a tailored, expertly guided way to explore the best of Morocco — comfortably and authentically. For more information or to start planning your journey, visit About the company: Morocco Tours Agency is a boutique travel company based in Merzouga, Morocco, specializing in private, guided travel across the country. With a focus on authenticity, cultural immersion, and personalized service, the agency designs tours that highlight the best of Morocco — from the Sahara Desert to imperial cities and mountain villages. Its experienced local guides and commitment to guest satisfaction have earned the company a 5-star reputation among travelers from around the world. Contact Info: Name: Saïd Sahlaoui Email: Send Email Organization: Morocco Tours Agency Address: Merzouga, Morocco. Phone: +212 651 141 942 (WhatsApp available) Website: Video URL: Release ID: 89161398 Should you identify any discrepancies, concerns, or inaccuracies in the content provided in this press release or require assistance with a press release takedown, we strongly urge you to notify us promptly by contacting [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our responsive team is committed to addressing your concerns within 8 hours by taking necessary actions to resolve identified issues diligently or guiding you through the necessary steps for removal. Our dedication lies in providing accurate and reliable information.
Hospitality Net
22-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
PM Hotel Group Further Expands Its Lifestyle Division, Modus by PM Hotel Group
PM Hotel Group, a Top-15 hotel management company with a proven track record of delivering extraordinary guest experiences and strong owner returns, has experienced continued strategic growth across its overall portfolio, including its lifestyle and unconventional hospitality division Modus by PM Hotel Group. With a focus on authentic and immersive destinations, the company has significantly expanded its presence in key markets, targeting today's independent-minded travelers seeking hotel stays that connect people and place. "At PM Hotel Group, we're not just growing our portfolio—we're carving out a unique space in the lifestyle segment through our Modus by PM Hotel Group division by developing and operating properties that deliver bold and authentic hospitality experiences," said Paul Sacco, Chief Growth & Development Officer, PM Hotel Group. "From nature-centric escapes to city adventure hubs, we're curating a collection of hotels that are anything but ordinary. These destinations compliment PM Hotel Group's overall portfolio of 92 hotels nationwide, both branded and independent properties." A Dynamic Roster of New Additions to the Lifestyle Portfolio Over the past year, PM Hotel Group has thoughtfully expanded its distinctive lifestyle portfolio with properties that reflect deep expertise in experiential hospitality. The division has strategically expanded into high-demand outdoor destinations with evo Hotel Salt Lake Cit y and evo Hotel Tahoe City—urban basecamps for adventure seekers looking to explore the surrounding landscapes without compromising on comfort or design. On the shores of Honolulu, the Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel delivers vibrant, locally inspired hospitality just steps from Waikiki Beach, offering breathtaking Diamond Head views. In Northern California's wine country, Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs in Calistoga offers a reimagined take on wellness, blending mid-century charm with healing mineral waters and spa rituals. In the Southern California entertainment corridor, The Lum Hotel Los Angeles Stadium District is converting into a Tapestry by Hilton. With rooftop dining, resort-style amenities, and its prime location steps from SoFi Stadium and the Intuit Dome, The Lum Hotel captures the energy of LA's sports and entertainment scene. Set to open in 2025, a new wave of hospitality experiences will further showcase PM Hotel Group's ability to deliver on lifestyle and unconventional hotel management. These projects embrace bold concepts, from regenerative hospitality to introducing a membership-club hotel concept in an untapped destination: RESET Joshua Tree , opening May 2025, is a desert retreat built from custom shipping containers, focused on high design and wellness inspired by its natural surroundings. , opening May 2025, is a desert retreat built from custom shipping containers, focused on high design and wellness inspired by its natural surroundings. Hotel Burg , opening summer 2025, offers a members' hotel experience, inviting locals and DC visitors to a modern hunt country destination in one of America's most celebrated small towns, Leesburg, Virginia. , opening summer 2025, offers a members' hotel experience, inviting locals and DC visitors to a modern hunt country destination in one of America's most celebrated small towns, Leesburg, Virginia. Nightsky San Luis Obispo, opening late fall 2025, is a glamping retreat with 35 design-forward tents, rooted in experiences that foster community building and connection to nature. The growth of PM Hotel Group's lifestyle portfolio is driven by shifting guest preferences, visionary ownership groups, and a commitment to delivering standout, experiential hospitality properties across a range of markets. Redefining Lifestyle Hospitality Management Through its Modus by PM Hotel Group division, the company offers a specialized platform that pushes hospitality boundaries while combining strategic commercial leadership with operational excellence. Backed by PM Hotel Group's scale and expertise, Modus delivers distinctive guest experiences in high-demand destinations where culture, wellness, and outdoor access drive guest satisfaction. "In today's hospitality landscape, travelers are looking for meaning, not just amenities," said Adam Gollance, President, Modus by PM Hotel Group. 'We're meeting this demand by cultivating a portfolio of hotels that offer discovery, design, and a deep sense of place—properties that connect guests with new experiences through wellness, fitness, dining, and entertainment to make each stay unforgettable." With a national footprint now spanning from the beaches of Honolulu to the red rocks of the desert Southwest and the peaks of Lake Tahoe and wine country Virginia, PM Hotel Group is not only expanding geographically—it's setting the pace for what comes next in lifestyle hospitality by combining spirited individuality with proven management expertise. About PM Hotel Group Based in the Washington D.C. metro area, PM Hotel Group is a Top-15 hotel management company, boasting nearly three decades of experience building relationships with brands, partners, and third-party hotel owners. Involved in the development and acquisition of more than $3 billion in premium-branded and independent hotel properties from coast to coast, PM Hotel Group now operates approximately 85 hotels and resorts across the United States, including Modus Hotels by PM Hotel Group, its division of lifestyle and unconventional hospitality. Operating with a commitment to sustainability and a long-standing culture of teamwork, innovation and entrepreneurship, the PM Hotel Group team is driven to deliver robust performance for owners. For more information, visit or follow along on Instagram @pm_hotelgroup and Facebook at
